#1 on Netflix after just 2 episodes: This Korean drama dominates the charts

JTBC’s new weekend drama We’re all trying here is taking over the small screen almost immediately after its release. Directed by Cha Young-hoon and written by Park Hae-young, the series earned both critical acclaim and audience attention in just two episodes, cementing its status as one of the most anticipated K-dramas of the year.

The explosive momentum of the show is supported by the numbers. On April 20 and 21, it ranked first on Netflix’s “10 Best Series in South Korea,” placing it firmly at the center of online buzz. Additionally, data from Good Data Corporation ranked it second on the overall TV-OTT drama chart for the third week of April. The cast is also attracting attention, with Koo Kyo-hwan in third place and Go Youn-jung in sixth place in the acting rankings, further fueling the drama’s popularity.

At the heart of this success is director Cha Young-hoon’s meticulous and emotionally rich visual storytelling, combined with writer Park Hae-young’s insightful dialogue. The director had previously shared that he didn’t want to miss out “a single line or detail” of the script, and this dedication is evident in the show’s immersive cinematography, which captures the characters’ internal struggles with remarkable precision.

Among the standout performances, Go Youn-jung shines as Byeon Eun-ah, offering a nuanced portrayal that relies more on silence than words. His understated acting style conveys a wide range of emotions beneath the surface, portraying a character who suppresses his pain rather than expressing it outwardly.

Byeon Eun-ah is a resilient figure who rarely breaks down, even under intense anxiety. Yet his repressed emotions manifest themselves physically, for example through sudden nosebleeds at emotional breaking points. Go Youn-jung masterfully captures this complexity, expressing desperation and longing for life through subtle glances and controlled breathing. He shared that he worked hard “fill in the blanks” of her character, conveying hidden wounds and unease beneath Eun-ah’s edgy exterior.

Director Cha Young-hoon also praised her performance, noting how her eyes alone conveyed deep emotions. He remarked that looking at her it seemed to be “attracted by his gaze”, wondering what experiences allowed her to express such depth. Her chemistry with Koo Kyo-hwan further elevates the narrative, as Eun-ah’s silent support becomes a stabilizing force for Hwang Dong-man, whose anxiety spirals out of control.

Another key factor contributing to the drama’s tension is actress Park Ye-ni, who plays Choi Hyo-jin, a sharp and pragmatic film producer. As part of an elite industrial circle, his character embodies professionalism and cold realism, often addressing Dong-man’s flaws head-on.

Choi Hyo-jin’s blunt criticism, especially in front of Eun-ah, creates harsh conflicts that increase the intensity of the drama. Park Ye-ni’s precise expressions and subtle changes in tone bring depth to the character, showing a completely different side compared to her previous roles. His transformation into a simple, lifelike figure left a strong impression on viewers, sparking anticipation for his role in future developments.

At its core, the drama offers a poignant message about finding value in a harsh and often indifferent reality. Dong-man and Eun-ah’s struggles, symbolized by their inability to overcome slow speed despite running forward, reflect the modern individual’s battle between helplessness and self-worth, having a profound resonance with audiences.

Writer Park Hae-young’s signature lines strike a powerful chord, offering emotional catharsis. Lines like “Why does my life have to meet your standards?” AND “If I don’t say anything, I feel like I don’t even exist: how can I stay silent?” articulating the characters’ frustrations while offering viewers a sense of liberation. The addition of subtle fantasy elements, such as altering the “weather” within a room, injects creativity and lightness into the otherwise heavy narrative.

Director Cha emphasized that he wanted to deliver drama “A little comfort: that today’s struggles are not just yours.” As the characters continue their journey facing futility and discovering the intrinsic value of simply existing, the story promises even greater emotional depth.

After just two episodes, We’re all trying here has already conquered the Netflix charts and ratings. Airing every Saturday at 10.40pm and Sunday at 10.30pm on JTBC, the series will continue to challenge viewers with profound questions about self-worth in modern life.

Sources: Daum

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